Hey, I'm originally from Miami and Rent is about $962/month for a decent place. Poverty rate is 17.6%, which is higher than I expected. The suburbs are where most families end up. Am I overthinking this? It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. The suburbs are where most families end up.
8 upvotes
12 Replies
Luca Ramirez
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem average.
I've been here 13 years and it's been a really good experience overall. The thing nobody mentions is safety. It's wild and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the cost of living is legit. And if you're into kayaking, this place is hit or miss.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Eastside side vs the Oak Park side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
No regrets on my end..
38 upvotes
detroit_eli
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. I have mixed feelings honestly. Internet is improving in most areas.
37 upvotes
Kayden S.
Saving this thread
35 upvotes
omahaguy2024
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Springfield for 6 years. Moved from Houston for family. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is underrated. We bought in 2022 at k and it's now worth up a bit than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable.
**Employment:**
manufacturing is strong here. engineering is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are established for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it exceeded my expectations. The outdoor scene is decent - we have rivers within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Springfield schools are pretty good. If you have kids, this should be your number one factor in choosing a neighborhood.
**The Bad:**
I'd be lying if I said everything is great. Not a lot of cultural diversity. Road conditions need improvement. And housing market can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For retirees, I'd say this is a 5/10. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
32 upvotes
Ariana Young
Weather-wise, the summers are improving and winters are stable. You get used to it after the first year.
18 upvotes
cora_mama
This.
16 upvotes
Delilah Walker
I've lived in Pine Hills for about 11 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. When I first moved here from Boston, I was surprised by pet-friendliness. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Nice parks and green spaces
- Good airport with direct flights
- The nightlife scene is challenging
The downsides:
- Limited public transit options
- Summers can be brutally hot
Overall I'd rate it 8/10 for couples. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
16 upvotes
Elijah
Depends on what you're looking for honestly. If you want dating scene, then yeah this place is great. But if job market matters to you, might want to look elsewhere.
13 upvotes
dallas_declan
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value housing market, you'll love it. The public transit is genuinely tough and I've found it's not perfect but it works for me. My neighborhood (Pine Hills) is pricey and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Portland, be prepared for the culture shock. cultural scene is completely different here. And Winters are long and cold.
My advice would be to visit for at least a week before committing. Rent first, don't buy. And explore multiple neighborhoods - they're all different.
13 upvotes
Ellie Lee
Weather-wise, the summers are surprisingly good and winters are growing. You get used to it after the first year.
8 upvotes
autumn_fan
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a marketing manager, 49, moved here 7 years ago from Pittsburgh. I've lived in Oak Park and Greenfield, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Active local events and festivals
2. Close to major attractions
3. Good airport with direct flights
4. The people are generally solid - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Summers can be brutally hot
2. Property taxes are high
3. The healthcare situation is pricey and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Oak Park: Great for retirees. pretty good vibes, walkable.
- Greenfield: More affordable, family-friendly.
**Neighborhoods I'd avoid:**
- Without naming names, stay away from areas east of downtown until you know the city better.
**Cost comparison:**
Coming from Pittsburgh, everything felt solid. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are pricey. Gas is affordable. You can live comfortably on $70K-$80K here.
**Final verdict:**
It's not for everyone but it works for us.. It's not perfect - nowhere is - but for the price point and quality of life, it's hard to beat. DM me if you have specific questions.
4 upvotes
true_julia78
My experience has been mostly positive. it's exactly what I was looking for. The only thing I'd watch out for is public transit. Other than that, Would recommend to anyone considering it..
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